Automotive sheet metal workers cut and shape sheet metal components into the correct forms and sizes for the bodywork of vehicles.
Automotive sheet metal workers cut and rivet sheet metal, applying heat treatment. They finish off the sheet metal by joining, filing, sanding and smoothing it down. They use electrical and gas welding techniques to join soft steel of different thickness.
Automotive sheet metal workers often have to draw plans, according to which the parts are cut and put together. It is important that the components fit together exactly. They need to know about the qualities of different metals, since decisions must be made as to the correct type of metal to be used.
They usually work indoors in a workshop and mostly at a bench. Neon or indirect lighting is often used to soften the glare reflecting from the bright surface of the sheet metal. The work is of a relatively clean nature but the hammering can cause some noise.